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[ Laughing softly, Dash gives a demonstrative little fist pump of celebration. ] Victory! [ For now, that is. He'll take it. It's more about the exchange that's happening than "winning" anything in particular, after all. In his mind, he's "won" because he got to meet and talk with Sungmin.

Oh, and eat his delicious baked goods... ]

I know it's not polite to ask a person their age, so I won't. [ He scrunches up his nose a little, like he's thinking. ] I guess I don't really know what that's like. [ He'll know before too long, because though he's not totally aware of it yet, he's actually stopped aging altogether. He's just not old enough to have realized it.

Speaking of noses, he's going to reach across and sample some of that frosting on Sungmin's nose, giving him a cheeky little smile for it. ] That's tasty!

[ Framing Sungmin's face with his fingers and thumbs touching as Sungmin finishes off that icing, Dash gives a flustered little laugh. He recovers quickly though. ] Then get ready to be impressed!

[ He drops his hands to his sides when Sungmin makes that remark. There it is. The p-word. ] Mm, I do. I mean, I haven't been there since I was a baby, but it's uh-- [ He makes a vague circle above their heads. ] The godly realm?

So cute. [ He remarked with another soft laugh, finding something very endearing about Dash and it really made him wonder more about his life. How had someone managed to push away jaded feelings or any kind of bitterness? Then again, maybe Dash hid his own negative feelings the same way he did. He seemed upbeat and unaffected by the harsh realities just the same because it worked much easier in the long run.

The soft touches of Dash's hands on his cheeks following the frosting licking had his breath hitching just a little bit. The intimacy of the warmth very appealing and he leaned into it with his eyes closed for a moment.

He missed the touch very much when Dash moved. There had been something almost electric about it, oddly enough. ]

I was born in the 20s. [ He offered with a shrug, smile playing along his lips because he knew he looked to be IN his twenties. ]

I look forward to you surprising and wowing me.

[ Wait. WAIT. The godly realm? Did that realm have anything to do with the cleansing of monsters from the sea, which ended his entire family? His heart squeezed in his chest at just the possibility but Dash obviously wouldn't have known, right? Having not been there since he was a baby. Biting at his lip, he gave a nod of his head. ]

You must have - abilities if you're a - godly Prince. [ He let out a low whistle without meaning to. It wouldn't hurt Dash too much but if siren abilities affected him, it would just give a zing of brief pain. ]

[ Dash shrugs dramatically, as if to say, 'who, me? Nah!' Whether or not he thinks he's cute, he's charmed and endeared by the idea that Sungmin thinks as much. In his eyes, he's done nothing in particular to merit the comment, but he's not opposed to trying to elicit a positive reaction.

Sungmin is cute when he's happy, after all. And Dash always wants people to be happy. ]

Oh, [ he says, drawing out the sound and trailing off slightly. ] The twenties... [ And, unwittingly, he mirrors a shade of Sungmin's thoughts: ] I'm in my twenties. Barely. [ For nearly thirty, he does look a touch young.

But again, not so dramatically so that it's noticeable. He shifts his weight, ending a little closer to Sungmin than before. ] I can show you all sorts of things! [ The magic of hats, by Dash.

At the whistle, Dash reflexively rubs his neck, as if uncomfortable. But the expression barely shows on his face before he's smiling nervously, one kind of furrow in his brow written over by another. ]

Um, I don't know yet, actually. I guess it's because I haven't gone back there. [ He makes the same circle again to indicate the godly realm. ] I just found out who I am a little while ago. I guess my mother left me with some humans right after I was born - they're the only parents I ever knew - and then she left, poof, and no one's seen her since. I only know what I know because some people from the godly realm have found me and filled me in on a few things.

[ Another shrug, this one less for show and more to show he's a bit lost. ] That's sort of a gloomy topic, oops! I could've picked a juicier secret!

[ The closer shift had him following in kind, listening with careful focus as Dash talked. He just really enjoyed the closer proximity of their bodies, each touch from Dash a calming balm, similar to how he used to feel drifting back and forth in the water, the ebb and flow something he missed fiercely. Yet another thing he needed to not dwell on.

Gazing upwards for a moment, he nodded his head. ]

Have they not seen your mother in the realm either? [ What would make someone abandon their child, especially one with obvious enhancements and importance. A Prince. The Prince, undoubtedly. Did Dash have any siblings or would he not know such a thing? ]

Who told you about things? Are you sure it's - safe? They might - there might be some out for you because of what you are. Who you are.

[ He frowned at the consideration. ] I think - your touch might be something. When you touched me before - I've never felt that. It was -

[ Dash relaxes his shoulders, or maybe it'd be more accurate to say they slump a little. Sungmin's making a lot of good points and they're all things he should be considering.

A breath passes and then he straightens up a bit.

It's no good if he lets himself get mired up in wondering about some things, right? He turns his attention to answering Sungmin as best he can. ] As far as I can tell, she just vanished. Everyone I talked to thinks she just got tired of...

[ He gestures vaguely. ] Ruling, I guess?

I've talked to a few people now. They keep finding me. No one's said anything that contradicts anyone else, so I was... trusting them. [ It sounds kind of lame when he says it now.

Just trusting random people. But that's also sort of his way.

He does look pretty surprised about the last thing Sungmin says. ] Oh-- I'm sorry! Did I hurt you? [ His brow knits together. ]

[ Undoubtedly, Sungmin looked incredibly concerned, hand reaching out on instinct to place on Dash's arm. There were a lot if things to consider and he couldn't imagine how Dash had to feel about it.

Overwhelmed, probably. ]

It might have more to it. If she cared enough to get you somewhere safe, there was probably a lot more going on in the realm.

I doubt she just vanished or got tired.

[ His face scrunched up a little. ] Is that what they told you? If they keep finding you - that's kind of - [ He shook his head. ]

Dash, be careful.

[ Quick to shake his head, he moved a little closer. ] No, no. It was - good. It felt - feels - good.

[ Looking over at Sungmin, Dash appears a bit troubled. He's trying to suppress it as much as possible, but it's certain there's a lot on his mind now. ]

You're right. I'm sure there's more I don't know, or... maybe it just benefits everyone else if I don't know. It's kind of a lonely thought. [ He bites his lip. ]

I don't want to be suspicious of everyone.

[ It's pretty clear he's just not cut out for too much intrigue. He's here after only talking to Sungmin once, after all. ] I should be more careful, but I guess I'm not very good at it.

[ He's too open-hearted about everything.

Absolutely everything. It shows again in how he reacts to Sungmin's last comment. ] Oh. It's nice? [ He flexes his fingers, looking at his hand. ] What's it like? [ His expression takes on a curious tint. ]

[ They were opposites in the fact Sungmin tended to be weary of everyone and everything since landing on the ground. Not too surprising given how it happened and he tended to just play the role expected of him. Flirting and being playfully alluring, mostly as a need for companionship but lately he drifted further away. So tired of everything not being real. ]

I understand. I'll be suspicious of them for you. Everyone with that kind of power has some kind of motive.

[ He fell silent, trying to figure out how to put things into words. ] I don't know if it's just on my end but kind of -

[ Running a hand through his hair, he blushed a little. ]

Like how I felt in the sea. Calm, drifting in a good way but still strong. Powerful.

[ Dash would be saddened and mystified simultaneously by that outlook. He was raised thinking that it was okay to let people in close, even if it meant being hurt. His disconnect with the reality of others has happened mostly because he really didn't think he was getting hurt growing up. He tends to be very bad at acknowledging his own sad feelings.

Or negative ones. As seen now in the way he's basically stomping on his own uncertainty, trying to keep it from showing through. ]

Really? You think so? [ He considers that. ] What about me? Do you think I'll become that way if I start interacting with them more?

[ He's trying so hard to keep from seeming unsteady.

Talking about how Sungmin felt, earlier, is a welcome kind of distraction. ] That sounds wonderful... [ He pauses, then holds out his hand. ] Do you want to try again? And see how it feels?

[ Compared to Dash, Sungmin came across as much more of a realist and this from someone who still believed in true love and fairy tales. Who longed for some kind of happily ever after but such things were not really meant for his kind, sadly, and he had to work really hard to not accidentally allure someone.

Even his regular speaking voice tended to be compelling. It made him sadder than it should have for a siren. ]

No way, you're too pure hearted, Dash. You're too good to darken yourself like that.

[ He offered a smile, biting at his lip when Dash suggested trying again.

But after a second, he gave a slow nod of his head. ]

Maybe see if you feel anything.

[ There's a place for realism in fairy tales. Even happy endings have some logistical component. Otherwise there'd be no conflict to solve!

Dash is sort of coming to understand that as his life shifts and turns and takes all these unexpected detours he hadn't been anticipating. ]

You think so? [ He smiles a bit. ] I hope so. I don't want to lose sight of myself, you know?

[ He flexes his hand again, nodding in response. Then, cautiously, he extends his hand across the distance between them. When his fingertips brush across the top of Sungmin's hand this time, he tries to pay attention to what it feels like.

It certainly feels nice. ]

I think if you keep your mind focused on what you want to achieve it'll help. [ He paused for a moment, considering. ] Surreound yourself with those who know the actual you and they'll help you from losing yourself. Keeping you grounded.

Literally in your case. [ A really stupid remark to try and lighten the air a little bit and make Dash smile.

The touch this time around seemed stronger; maybe the extra focus on doing it and not by accident? It was even better than before and he let out a soft exhale, eyes fluttering closed. ]

What's it feel like to you? [ a slight pause and then - ] You must have a magic touch.

[ The punny comment works, and Dash laughs brightly. ] Thanks, Sungmin. You're good at cheering me up! [ It could be said that Dash is good at letting himself be cheered, but more than that, he's not entirely accustomed to someone taking the time.

Usually he beats them to the punch and talks himself out of feeling sad, because that's what being a super-optimist is about. Right? ]

Magic touch? [ he asks, nervous laughter in the words. ] I never would've guessed.

To me... it's like, hm. [ He runs his fingertips over Sungmin's knuckles, then nudges at his hand a little so he can do the same to his palm. ] It's hard to explain. It's warm. But it's also not at the same time.

That doesn't make much sense, does it?

[ When prompted, Sungmin flipped his hand over, sparks racing down the length of his arm from the touch. It might also help he had slightly sensitive hands to begin with and enjoyed his palm stroked. Probably a little odd but he enjoyed it more than his hair stroked and messed with.

Letting out an 'mmm' noise, he tried to focus again after a moment. Dash had words to say and he didn't want to miss them.

Blinking open his eyes, he tried to consider the words for a moment. ]

Have you ever felt it touching anyone else? Maybe it's different? I'm not sure. Has anyone ever told you that your touch feels good?

[ He paused for a moment. ] Oh. It'd probably be different context huh?

[ Dash notices the reaction and smiles a little, biting his lip to hold it back a bit. He does it again, more slowly. If Sungmin's enjoying himself, far be it from him to stop!

He gives most of his attention to doing so, at least until Sungmin speaks. At which point, he pauses to think. His other hand rises to cradle the back of Sungmin's, so it can merely rest against his palm. ]

Well... it's been awhile, actually. Since I really touched someone. [ He smiles sheepishly. ] That's not to say I haven't!

But maybe... well, I was hidden before, right? No one could sense me until the magic that was hiding me was gone.

Maybe something else changed then. [ He chews on his lip. ] I guess it's possible...

[ At the insistence, Sungmin couldn't help the breathless laugh. The warmth and drifting sensation were really, really good and he liked it. More than he wanted to admit to because it seemed too uncertain at the moment. Dash didn't have any ideas about what he could or couldn't do.

Would being a siren have some kind of impact? There were far too many questions to ponder with the situation. ]

Good information to have. [ He teased, leaning into Dash's body just a little. ]

Hmm it could have woken up whatever it is you can do. There's probably more to it than just making someone feel nice.

[ A light blush stained his cheeks. ] Let me know if your mind gets fuzzy at all. That's usually the first sign of being lured. Usually, I'm really good at not doing it but you never know.

[ Dash actually turns red and laughs again, nudging Sungmin's arm with his elbow while still hanging onto his hand. ] What are you going to do with that information? [ he asks, sounding amused.

On a slightly more serious note: ] I wouldn't be sad if that was my ability.

Making people feel nice, I mean. [ He draws an idle shape on Sungmin's palm while he speaks. ] That would be a great ability. "The god of good feelings." I'd be happy with that!

[ But. ] You're probably right though. There's probably something else to it.

Maybe I should... stop. [ He frowns a little, somewhat petulant. ] It might have some kind of negative effect on you.

I feel fine though, I promise! Totally clear-headed. [ Except for the part of him that is very naturally charmed by Sungmin, that is. ]

[ With his free hand he patted Dash's cheek lightly over the blush, smiling almost smugly. ] I'm not sure yet but if it makes you feel better I haven't touched anyone in awhile either or been touched!

[ Another soft sigh, even more content sounding than the last. ] Feel Good can be your title.

[ Negative effect? He frowned right along with Dash. ] If it helps, I don't think anything negative can be done to me with my ties to the underworld.

[ He gave a little shrug of his shoulder as if it didn't matter much. ]

Okay, good, but you - don't have to stop if you don't want to.

[ Dash's face scrunches up a bit with the force of his grin there. Whether or not he's been touched a lot lately, he certainly seems to like it. ]

That's okay, right? Well, I mean... unless you want things to be different. [ And want to have someone around with whom you can be affectionate. Dash sighs in a manner that seems to perhaps indicate this is a thing he wants. ]

Feel Good! I like it. [ He cups Sungmin's hand in his, holding onto it carefully. Tenderly. ]

Oh, do you think so? I hope that's right, because I wouldn't want you to get hurt. Especially not over something that feels nice... [ Now he's sort of distractedly playing with Sungmin's hand, gentle little touches scattered here and there. ]

I'll be honest. I do like it...

[ For a siren, not having affection at all made him wilt a little but no one ever wanted just him once they found out his status. They only wanted the image; the fantasy to curl around them. It exhausted him completely so he had refrained for some time, which might explain why Dash impacted him more. ]

Are you asking if I want to be affectionate with you, Dash?

[ Very light teasing but he could not help himself at all. ]

I like it too. It feels good. [ Raising his free hand, he brushed his fingertips along Dash's cheek. ] Does it feel different if I touch you?

[ It might be that the absence of these things has made Dash feel the desire for them more strongly too. Possibly. He's trying very hard to bear that in mind while he stands here opposite Sungmin.

Very hard indeed. ] Oh, well... I mean! It doesn't have to be me. But if it's something you want... [ He shrugs around a shy smile. ] I don't think you should have to be without affection.

I like you! [ The words aren't hard for him to say, but that doesn't mean that they're weightless. ]

Um, [ he begins, eloquently, when Sungmin touches him. Carefully, he leans into the touch a bit. ] Well, I think this would feel really nice no matter what, if you want my honest opinion.

[ Fondness rose up so quickly within him it nearly took his breath away. Dash seemed to have a special talent for it already. It kind of surprised him in a way but made him happy all the same. ]

I like you. You shouldn't be without affection either. You seem very affectionate. [ Not something hard to pick up on with Dash at all.

Fingers drifting all along Dash's cheek, he laughed a little. ]

You're right. This might just feel good because of the obvious and not an ability thing.

[ He fell silent for a moment. ] Does this affection thing include cuddling?

[ Dash feels a little silly about his outburst of a reply, but he doesn't seem to be letting it get him down. He breathes in and lets out a happy little sound. ] You got me! I definitely like to be affectionate with people.

But it's not something to do without knowing the other person wants it, of course. [ He clears his throat and squares his shoulders. Right. Proper behavior.

Sort of. He tucks his head closer to Sungmin's hand again. ] Ability or no, it's nice. [ Didn't he come here to focus on cupcakes?

He's completely forgotten. ]

Maybe it does. That would make sense, wouldn't it?

[ Before everything happened, Sungmin held a lot of affection and easily shared it with others, sometimes too much in the case of wayward traveler's in the sea depths but after the cleansing things were different. Sure, he fell into bed with plenty of people but never for long and he always left feeling worse.

The warmth and safety never existed, nor the spark and excitement of something new. Just a whole lot of hollowness instead.

But the affectionate ways still existed inside of him. ]

You don't have to worry about me. I do want it.

[ His hand remained cupping Dash's cheek, a feather light touch. ]

Let me phrase this another way. Do you want to cuddle with me? [ Being coy never seemed to work out right for him. ]

[ It's hard to kill that desire to be affectionate. Dash has spent a lot of time trying-without-trying to do it. He works a lot. Sometimes he doesn't know why he's working so much, but it might be easier than feeling lonely.

He certainly doesn't feel lonely right now.

This is quite a revelation to him, actually. Especially now that they're having such a direct conversation about it. ]

I don't think I'd be unhappy about that at all, [ he says, grinning in a sort of private way while he averts his eyes. ] It sounds nice.

[ More than nice. But maybe he's getting ahead of himself a little. Maybe... ] Maybe sometime when we're not in your kitchen? [ He's not saying this to put Sungmin off. In fact, his intention is to be encouraging. They've only met once.

He'd really like to see Sungmin again. ]

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